Families go without

The figures show that in 2011/12, average incomes decreased by three per cent compared to 2010/11, with almost a million more people falling in to poverty over this time.

We are concerned there has been a significant rise in the number of children living in absolute poverty, especially as the Institute of Fiscal Studies predicts it is likely to continue rising over the next five years. It is unacceptable that increasing numbers of families have to go without basic life essentials.

It is more important than ever that people can access support through welfare benefits, charitable grants and other financial help. We would urge them to check their eligibility on our website: www.turn2us.org.uk.